Eureka’s temperate coastal climate lends itself to dining alfresco many months out of the year (though, we do recommend checking the weather before you travel — an umbrella or light sweater may be in order!) Read on for a list of spots to grab a bite while the bay breeze lends some ocean vibes to your meal.
A Taste of Bim
613 3rd St, Eureka, CA 95501 | (707) 798-6300
This mother-daughter owned Caribbean eatery on 3rd Street in Old Town features a colorful outdoor patio, perfect for chowing down on island-inspired cuisine. You’ll find jerk wings, ribs, seafood specials, fried plantains, and vegetarian offerings aplenty. Make sure to grab a homemade Caribbean lemonade or guava drink, or if you’re feeling canny, the imported popular Jamaican carbonated grapefruit beverage, Ting, to go along with your meal.
Get the menu and opening hours here.Fresh Freeze
3023 F St, Eureka, CA 95501 | (606) 442-6967
For a more retro take, swing by
Fresh Freeze in Eureka’s Henderson Center neighborhood. Established in 1951 and considered a Eureka landmark, you’ll feel like you’ve gone back in time with their authentic 50’s themed menus and atmosphere. Burgers, milkshakes, malts, and dipped cones await, all delicious and ready to eat at the walk-up bar, tables out front, or of course, in your car.
Cafe Marina and Woodley’s Bar
601 Startare Dr, Eureka, CA | 707-443-2233
If you’re looking for a view with your outdoor dining experience, venture across Highway 255 to Woodley Island, the largest marina in the Humboldt Bay, to grab a bite at
Cafe Marina. Their outdoor patio overlooks the active working harbor, where local fishermen bring in their hauls. Yes, your meal probably came from
right there. On the menu, you’ll find a selection of classic breakfast fare like steak and eggs and the Marina Scramble, and lunch and dinner feature fresh fish and chips, steak & prawns, tender oysters, and prawn fettuccini alfredo.
Los Bagels
402 2nd St, Eureka, CA 95501 | (707) 442-8525
A Humboldt institution since 1984,
Los Bagels serves up homemade organic bagels, handmade pastries, and artisan espresso. At this multicultural cafe (a blend of Jewish and Mexican culture and tastes) you’ll find a few outdoor tables to sip on your coffee and indulge in a chewy bagel, or, take your goods to go as you explore Old Town and the waterfront.
Jack's Seafood
4 C St Suite B, Eureka, CA 95501 | (707) 273-5273
Jack's Seafood features fresh seafood right on the waterfront and an outdoor dining area looking out to the Humboldt Bay. Indulge in local oysters, steamed clams, crab cakes, sandwiches, tuna melts, and fresh halibut sautéed or in a burger. You’ll also find local pint specials on Tuesdays and daily happy hour specials.
Humboldt Bay Social Club
900 New Navy Base Rd, Samoa, CA 95564 | (707) 502-8544
A bit further outside of Eureka on the Samoa Peninsula, come hang by the fire pits at the
Humboldt Bay Social Club. You can pick up buckets of grill-your-own-oysters (bring your own shuckers or they’ll provide the tools) and do it picnic-style with local cheese, wine, beer, and a multitude of other goodies. This hidden gem is worth the drive. Dog friendly!
Shamus T Bones
1911 Truesdale St, Eureka, CA 95503 | (707) 407-3550
Locally-owned, family-friendly
Shamus T Bones is located on the southern end of Eureka with a back green and outdoor cowboy-style fire pit. Their menu features slow-roasted and smoked meat and a variety of seafood, vegetarian, and side options. The indoor decor is not to be missed, either — check out the bar made out of a locally salvaged old-growth redwood before you head out back.
Food Trucks
Various locations
Eureka has a variety of food trucks to quelch even the hungriest of appetites. While not strictly outdoor dining, you can’t go wrong grabbing takeout to takeaway to one of Eureka’s many scenic outlooks. Check out LoCo Fish Co, Big Island Kine, Taco Brothers, Sistah’s Vegan Food, Tacos el Pueblo, and Taqueria La Barca. Some have stable locations, some roam; check their social for the most up-to-date hours and location.
